Preview
Preview
TWINS
by
Robyn M Lindley
Liberty University
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A Dissertation Presented in Partial Fulfillment
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of the Requirements for the Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
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Liberty University
July 2024
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by
Robyn M Lindley
Liberty University
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A Dissertation Presented in Partial Fulfillment
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of the Requirements for the Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
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Liberty University
June 2024
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APPROVED BY:
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ABSTRACT
This study explored teachers’ perceptions of twins’ academic abilities and achievements
classroom dynamics and social interactions among twins and their peers, as well as how
teachers differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of twins in the classroom. By
interviews with 15 elementary school teachers with experience teaching identical and
fraternal twins in primary and secondary schools in Texas and Virginia. The study
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identified several key themes through thematic analysis: the importance of individualized
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instruction, the unique social dynamics between twins, and the challenges and advantages
of differentiation in the classroom. Findings indicate that teachers recognize the necessity
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of tailoring educational approaches to meet the diverse needs of twins, emphasizing the
inform theories related to peer dynamics, social integration, and differentiated instruction.
The practical implications include the potential to inform teacher training programs,
develop support systems for teachers, and influence school policies to foster a more
inclusive and supportive learning environment for twins. By shedding light on teachers’
perceptions of twins and their educational experiences, the study aims to optimize
educational practices and outcomes for twin students, offering practical guidance for
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Dedication
With a heart full of love and gratitude, I dedicate this dissertation to my beautiful twin
sons, Jackson and Liam. You have been the guiding light and unwavering motivation
behind all of my endeavors. You have both brought immeasurable joy and purpose to my
life, shaping me into the person I am today. As I poured my soul into this work, I did it
with you in mind, knowing that you are the reason for my every success and
heartfelt thank you for your unwavering support. Your encouragement, guidance, and
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for your presence in my life, and words can hardly express my immense thanks and
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appreciation to you both. Furthermore, I extend my deepest gratitude to Mrs. Barbara
Augenreich of the Bedford County Public School System for her exceptional care and
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guidance over my sons during the initial stages of my doctoral journey. You are the
educator whose impact will forever be etched in their memories, and we remain
profoundly thankful for your enduring friendship that continues to enrich our lives.
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Acknowledgments
support and keen insights that have guided me throughout my research journey. The
dedication of Dr. Rachel Piferi and Dr. Margaret Gopaul to meticulous attention and
academic excellence has been instrumental in shaping the quality and depth of this work.
Their thoughtful critiques and steadfast commitment have not only refined my research
but also inspired me to strive for greater heights in scholarly rigor. As I reflect on my
study, I am filled with appreciation for the dedicated and inspiring educators who took
part in it. Your knowledge and passion for teaching has left a lasting impact on me and I
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am grateful to have learned from each and every one of you. Thank you for being an
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essential part of this journey and for sharing your insights and expertise with me.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Dedication ........................................................................................................................ v
Acknowledgments ........................................................................................................... vi
Introduction .......................................................................................................... 1
Background ........................................................................................................... 1
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Problem Statement ............................................................................................... 6
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Purpose of the Study ............................................................................................. 8
Summary ............................................................................................................. 18
Overview ............................................................................................................ 20
Summary ............................................................................................................ 57
Overview ............................................................................................................ 59
Participants ......................................................................................................... 61
Summary ............................................................................................................. 73
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CHAPTER 4: RESULTS ............................................................................................... 75
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Overview ............................................................................................................ 75
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List of Tables
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Table 9: Table 7: Relevant Codes ................................................................................... 88
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Table 10: Table 8: Interview Extract ............................................................................ 95
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List of Figures
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Introduction
Twins have long captivated researchers and instructors due to their interesting
traits. They give an important opportunity to study the relative impacts of genetics and
twins face particular challenges and opportunities, especially with respect to zygosity,
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together in kindergarten (Amundson, 2019). This decision can influence the twins’
parents, and twins concerning the best practice for twin placement in schools. Each
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stakeholder may have distinctive beliefs, preferences, and desires based on individual
Background
One of the primary challenges twins face in school settings is the implementation
of separation policies (Garon-Carrier et al., 2022). Many schools have policies that
However, such separation can be emotionally challenging for twins, who often share a
deep bond (Garon-Carrier et al., 2022). The sudden separation may lead to anxiety,
depression, and diminished academic performance as they struggle to adjust to the new
socialization, particularly when they are the only pair of twins in their school or class
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(Bastemur & Aslan, 2021). Peers may view them as a single entity, failing to recognize
their individuality. This can hinder their social development and create feelings of
can also vary between twins. Twin studies have shown that while some twins exhibit
similar academic abilities, others may differ significantly (Garon-Carrier et al., 2022).
may contribute to these variations (Kovas et al., 2015). Understanding these differences
and providing tailored support to each twin is crucial to optimize their academic progress.
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The rationale behind separating twins in school often rests on the assumption that it
relationships (Garon-Carrier et al., 2022; Nilsson et al., 2010; Tully et al., 2004; Van
Conversely, keeping twins together in school may yield positive results with
respect to learning, mental well-being, social abilities, and family cohesion (Garon-
Carrier et al., 2022). Some teachers recognize the benefits of having twins in the same
et al., 2023). However, the benefits may depend on the particular characteristics and
preferences of the twins, such as their zygosity, personality, connection, and academic
capacities (Bastemur & Aslan, 2021). Some twins prefer to be together, whereas others
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want more separation and autonomy. Hence, it has been recommended that decisions
about separating or keeping twins together in school should be based on the individual
needs and interests of each twin pair instead of general assumptions or approaches.
Despite the importance of this issue, there is a need for more research on the perceptions
of school teachers regarding twins in kindergarten. The majority of studies have focused
(Nilsson et al., 2021). However, teachers play a crucial role in shaping twins’ educational
environment and outcomes as they interact with them daily and influence their
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curriculum, instruction, assessment, and socialization. Teachers may also hold different
beliefs and expectations about twins than other stakeholders, influenced by their training,
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experience, and knowledge about twin development and education.
support. By considering their specific learning styles, social dynamics, and emotional
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well-being, educators can create a conducive learning environment for twins. Secondly,
research on twins’ education can inform the development of school policies. By revisiting
separation policies and implementing strategies that facilitate healthy socialization and
academic success, schools can create an inclusive environment supporting twins’ growth
and development. Lastly, studying twins’ education empowers parents of twins with
knowledge and strategies to navigate the educational journey effectively. It gives them
insights to make informed decisions and advocate for their twins’ needs within the
educational system.
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The scientific literature on twins has focused on two key areas: the genetic
similarities and differences between identical and fraternal twins and the mental impacts
of being a twin on individual character and social connections. Different studies have
research strategies. Research findings have illustrated those different characteristics, such
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2020). However, certain characteristics, such as fingerprints, voice patterns, or dental
proposed that twins show a more grounded bond with each other than their parents or
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friends, and they may face challenges in establishing their identity and autonomy.
However, contrasting studies have challenged these assumptions, asserting that twins are
not necessarily more similar or dependent than non-twins and may benefit from a close
Biblical literature offers limited but intriguing insights into the realm of twins.
Explicit mentions of twins in the Bible are confined to two pairs: Jacob and Esau in the
Old Testament [Genesis 25:19-26] and Perez and Zerah in the New Testament [Matthew
1:3]. In both instances, the mothers of the twins experienced divine intervention after
struggling with infertility [Genesis 25:21; Genesis 38:27-30]. Additionally, both pairs
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38:28-30]. However, while Jacob and Esau exhibited stark differences in appearance and
personality [Genesis 25:27], Perez and Zerah possessed similar physical characteristics
being twins or having twins among their offspring. For instance, according to specific
rabbinic interpretations, Cain and Abel may have been twins, and their story involved a
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chronological calculations suggest that Rachel and Leah, wives of Jacob, may have been
twins. Their relationship was marked by competition for their husband’s love and
covenants. They also exemplify the themes of duality, contrast, rivalry, and
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reconciliation. Twins reflect the intricate relationship between nature and nurture,
individuality and community, and human will and divine will. However, biblical research
on twins also poses important questions and challenges. How do twins relate to concepts
such as the image of God, free will, sin, grace, and salvation? How do twins balance their
similarities and differences, unity and diversity, cooperation and competition? How do
twins interact with individuals unlike them, such as non-twins, siblings, parents, spouses,
or enemies? These crucial issues necessitate further exploration and integration from a
Biblical perspective.
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The review of scientific research on twins illustrates the broad investigation into
their genetic and mental aspects, highlighting the impact of both genes and the
environment on different characteristics and results. However, there is a need for more
social orders. Besides, investigating the perspectives of people unrelated to twins, such as
challenges.
On the Biblical front, the limited but intriguing mentions of twins in the Bible
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underscore their significance within the divine narrative. Twins are portrayed as figures
associated with distinct roles, conflicts, and blessings, shedding light on the complexities
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of human relationships and divine purpose. However, there is a need for further
Problem Statement
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The problem is twins are a unique populace that faces particular challenges and
assignment of twins, whether placed together or apart, is one of the most critical
decisions affecting their academic and social development (Alexander, 2012; Garon-
Carrier et al., 2022). However, there is a lack of research on how teachers perceive and
interact with twins in numerous classroom settings and how these perceptions impact
the best policy for classroom placement of twins, as different nations and schools have
With regard to academic achievement, various studies have looked into the
probable impact of twin status on academic results. Burt et al. (2017) conducted a
systematic review and observed that twin siblings, especially identical twins, demonstrate
comparable academic abilities. This implies that educators might have particular
expectancies or beliefs regarding twins’ skills based on their common genetic makeup
and likenesses. The impact of sibling ranking on the learning experiences of twins
learning experiences has also been studied (Segal & Knafo-Noam, 2021). Siblings may
go through a distinct sequence of birth relationships because they are delivered at the
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same time. Twins may also experience a different birth order dynamic due to being born
simultaneously, which can affect their interactions and relationship dynamics (Segal &
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Knafo-Noam, 2021). Furthermore, research by Garon-Carrier et al. (2022) found that
twins often develop distinct roles within their relationship, which can influence their
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behavior and interactions in the classroom. These roles may also shape teachers’
academic execution, social interactions, and the impact of genetic and environmental
factors on their development. Studies have shown that twins frequently share a solid bond
and may display similarities in their learning styles, strengths, and challenges (Garon-
Carrier et al., 2022). Additionally, they may experience a unique social dynamic,
supporting and competing in the academic setting (Sahu & Prasuna, 2016). However,
most of these studies have centered on the twins, neglecting the perspectives of the key
individuals involved in their educational journey: the teachers. Furthermore, the role of
teacher experience and training in handling twin students is an area that requires
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addressing the needs of twins in the classroom, or do they rely primarily on their intuition
fraternal twins in their classrooms. The current state of knowledge needs to adequately
address how teachers understand and navigate the complexities of teaching twins with
potential impact of these perceptions on the twins’ academic and social development
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remains unexplored. Addressing these gaps in knowledge aims to contribute to a more
add to it. The classroom assignment of twins, whether placed together or apart, is one of
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the most critical decisions affecting their academic and social development. It can inform
educational institutions, teachers, and parents how to better support and facilitate twins’
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educational setting will be examined. The study also aims to gather qualitative data to
comprehensively understand how teachers differentiate instruction for twins and the
challenges and benefits they identify when teaching twin students. At this stage in the
teaching identical and fraternal twins.” This encompasses the multifaceted aspects of
teachers’ encounters with twins in the classroom, including instructional strategies, social
dynamics, and the overall impact on the educational environment. The theory guiding this
study is the combination of the Multiple Intelligences Theory, Social Identity Theory, and
the theories of Self-Concept and Self-Esteem. These theories collectively inform the
study’s focus on understanding how teachers perceive and interact with twins,
considering their varied intelligences, social identities, and self-concepts and how these
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Research Question(s) and Hypotheses
Research Questions
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RQ1: How do teachers with experience teaching both identical and fraternal twins
describe the experience with identical and fraternal twins’ academic performance and
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social behavior?
RQ 3: How do teachers with experience teaching both identical and fraternal twins
describe the challenges of teaching identical and fraternal twins in the same classroom?
RQ 4: How do teachers with experience teaching both identical and fraternal twins
describe how they differentiate between identical and fraternal twins regarding their
RQ 5: How do teachers with experience teaching both identical and fraternal twins
describe how they foster a sense of individuality and identity among identical and
fraternal twins?
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One significant area for improvement is the limited generalizability of the results.
By focusing on a specific group of teachers with experience teaching twins, the study
may only partially represent the broader population of educators in different educational
settings. Additionally, while valuable for capturing diverse perspectives, the purposive
sample size may restrict the extent to which the findings can be generalized. Another
potential limitation is the presence of recall bias in teachers’ perceptions and experiences
with twins. Their memories of past interactions with twin students may not accurately
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reflect their day-to-day experiences in the classroom. Social desirability bias is another
challenge that researchers must address. Teachers may feel compelled to present
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themselves and their attitudes in a socially desirable manner, potentially affecting the
Participant self-selection bias is a concern when recruiting teachers for the study.
Those with particularly positive or negative experiences with twins may be more inclined
sample can help alleviate this bias. Identifying and recruiting twins for the study can be
Researchers should consider alternative approaches to involve twin students in the study
among identical and fraternal twins poses a challenge in generalizing their experiences
and teachers’ perceptions. It may also be difficult to differentiate between the impact of
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twinship itself and other individual factors on their educational experiences. Lastly, time
constraints may affect the participation rate of teachers, potentially leading to a smaller
sample size than desired. Researchers should manage the time requirements of data
The theoretical framework of this research draws upon several key concepts and
in the educational context. While no dominant theoretical framework guides this study,
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various sociological and educational theories inform different aspects of the research.
(Gardner & Hatch, 1989). This theory suggests that individuals may excel in various
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remarkable diversity of individual learning styles and abilities, recognizing that students
setting, the Multiple Intelligences Theory holds significant relevance. This theory
underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing twin students’ distinct learning
needs and strengths (Marenus, 2023). Given that twins can exhibit individual differences
whether they acknowledge and accommodate them or not, can significantly impact twins’
educational experiences.
Theory, educators can tailor their instructional approaches to cater to the diverse learning
needs of twins. For example, if one twin demonstrates a strong aptitude for spatial
intelligence while the other excels in interpersonal intelligence, teachers can adapt their
teaching methods to foster this respective intelligence (Bratko et al., 2020). Recognizing
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and accommodating individual strengths contribute to a more inclusive and supportive
learning environment for twin students (Gillham, 2012). Therefore, the study drew upon
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the Multiple Intelligences Theory to investigate how teachers’ awareness of and
framework for understanding the formation of social identities, including those related to
twinship within the school context. This theory posits that individuals categorize
themselves and others based on group memberships, and these group identities
significantly influence their behavior and interactions (Guy-Evans, 2023). For twins, their
twin identity is a salient aspect of their social identity. This theory provides insights into
how twins may categorize themselves as a distinct group that is separate from single-born
students. It also offers a lens through which to examine how a twin identity influences
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the social identity dynamics of twins in the school setting is essential for comprehending
how they navigate their social world and construct their self-identities.
Harter and Susan Harter, are highly relevant for exploring the self-perception and self-
worth of twin students (Białecka-Pikul et al., 2019). These theories examine how
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et al., 2019). In the case of twins, a co-twin introduces unique dynamics. Twin students
may form their self-concept based on their relationship with their co-twin, and this self-
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concept may significantly impact their self-esteem (Kim et al., 2023). The self-concept
and self-esteem of twins can influence their academic and social experiences in school.
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Understanding how the twin identity affects the self-concept and self-esteem of twin
students is critical for educators and researchers seeking to create a supportive and
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(Trautwein, 2023).
aligns with several core biblical principles that underscore the value of each individual
and the importance of fairness, compassion, and inclusiveness. These principles provide a
strong biblical foundation for understanding and addressing the educational experiences
of twin students.
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